James Sylvester Eby

James Sylvester Eby, 82, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed away at his residence on Monday, October 13, 2025. Born on June 15, 1943, in Monroe, Michigan, he was the eldest son of the late James (Ty) and Viola (Vi) Eby.

He is survived by three children, Lorraine Fitzmaurice and husband Tim, Victoria Eby and husband Jeff, and Michael Cowan and wife April; grandchildren John Fitzmaurice and wife Emily, Ryan Fitzmaurice, Jessica Eby, Jeanette Hager and husband Brian, Jeffrey Eby and Brooke, Lori Gasemy and husband Danny, Samantha VanHyning, and Jennifer Cowan; and great-grandchildren, Kacey Hager, Emma Hager, Jacob Hager, Avery Eby, Taylor Lamberton, Brooke Lamberton, and Reagan Ulrich; six brothers, Len Eby, Allyn Eby, Greg Eby and wife Sarah, Scott Eby and wife Linda, Jeff Eby and wife Vicki, and Rick Eby and wife Nuala; two sisters, Vicki Micka and husband Harry, and Pam Quatro and husband Rob; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife Barbara Eby, son Steven Eby, and grandson, James Eby, along with a number of special aunts and uncles.

Jim graduated in 1961 from Monroe Catholic Central High, where he played football, basketball and baseball. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served for eight years. During his service, he was stationed in San Antonio, Texas, Wakkanai, Japan, Wisconsin, and the Pentagon, where he was honorably discharged in June 1969. After leaving the military, Jim worked for Bowl America, Inc for 25 years where he retired as regional manager. He then joined his wife as a real estate agent with Avery-Hess.

Jim loved all sports, as a spectator and a player, but none more than football and was a diehard University of Michigan fan! He often said there was no better time than when summer was coming to a close and the weather was getting cooler, because he knew football season was starting! He was an avid reader, particularly of historical events, and worked the crossword puzzle in the newspaper daily. He also adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and would light up whenever they were present.

A service will be held at Mullins and Thompson Funeral Service, Fredericksburg, Virginia, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with burial to follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends an hour before the service. Reception will follow at the funeral home.